Detectives appeal for information after masked and armed men rob shop

A masked man made off with a sum of cash following an armed robbery last night.

The incident occurred in a shop shortly after 9.30 pm when a masked man armed with a knife entered the premises and threatened two female shop assistants.

The incident happened in the Melmount Road area of Strabane, Co Tyrone.

The man made off with a sum of money in the direction of the Lisnafin area.

A police spokesperson described him as being in his early 20s and between 5ft 3ins and 5ft 6ins in height.

He was wearing a dark raincoat and black woollen gloves.

The staff members were not injured by were left badly shaken by their ordeal.

Police in Strabane are investigating the robbery and have asked anyone with information to telephone 0845 600 8000 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.

The robbery has been condemned by local SDLP election candidate Patrick Leonard who has called on anyone with information to pass it on to police.

Mr Leonard said: “This behaviour is not acceptable within our community. These actions jeopardise those employed and puts their lives at risk.

“This is a very terrifying ordeal for any member of staff or the public to endure,” he added.